In recent years British politics has seemed increasingly unpredictable. The Conservative Party's return to single-party government in 2015 surprised commentators and the electorate alike, and Labour's choice of Jeremy Corbyn as its leader marked a striking change in direction for the party. Cuts to public welfare and spending have led to growing dissatisfaction among sections of the public, and the increasing popularity of parties critical of the government's immigration, economic and social policies appears to represent a call for fundamental change in British politics. With a question mark hanging over the country's global standing following the EU referendum, and with further calls for Scottish independence, Britain's immediate future seems uncertain.
In the 10th edition of this highly acclaimed text, leading authorities reflect on the latest developments in British politics. Drawing on current research, the chapters provide a state-of-the-art, yet accessible, account of British politics today. All the chapters are newly commissioned for this edition and together they provide a systematic analysis of key trends, issues and debates. Topics covered include the legacy of Cameron's governments, the politics of austerity, immigration, and the question of what, if anything, is distinctively 'British' about the British political system.
1. What's British about British politics?; Andrew Gamble
2. Britain's Experience of Coalition Government; Tim Bale and Ben Yong
3. Voting Behaviour and Electoral Outcomes; Alan Renwick
4. The Party System; Paul Webb
5. Ideological Politics and the Party System; Michael Kenny
6. Parliament;Meg Russell
7. Political Recruitment; Philip Cowley
8. Political Participation; Maria T. Grasso
9. Developments in the Civil Service; Catherine Haddon
10. Politics and the News Media; Richard Heffernan
11. Governing in Times of Austerity; Deborah Mabbett
12. The Politics of Immigration; Maria Sobolewska and Robert Ford
13. The United Kingdom and the Scottish Referendum; Charlie Jeffrey
14. Britain and the European Union; Andrew Geddes
15. Developments in (33 years of) British Politics; Colin Hay.